The Bachelor of Design and Technology Innovation (Honours) requires one year of full-time study (or the equivalent part-time). The course is offered by the College of Science and Engineering.

The program is designed to be accredited by the Design Institute of Australia (DIA).

Admission requirements

A degree in Design and Technology Innovation or a closely related discipline with an average grade in the design and innovation topics of credit.

Course aims

The course has been designed to provide or build upon the skills acquired in a relevant Bachelor's degree and specifically provide graduates of science, engineering or technology awards with:

  • an understanding of the theory and practice of design and product development
  • an understanding of the theory and practice of innovation and how it applies to their chosen field of study
  • an understanding of design, innovation and enterprise management skills
  • a sound understanding of a science, engineering or technology discipline
  • an understanding of professional and ethical responsibilities and a commitment to them
  • an ability to apply existing knowledge to contribute to innovation and entrepreneurship within an organisation
  • an ability to source and present design ideas, including communicating effectively with a variety of audiences in written and spoken form
  • an ability to undertake a complex design project including the planning and execution of an individual research project, applying relevant methodologies and knowledge.

Learning outcomes 

On completion of the award, students will be able to:

  • understand and competently use scientific, engineering or technological skills and knowledge in an environment in which innovation is essential
  • understand and use design techniques and knowledge
  • apply skills and knowledge in a professionally responsible manner
  • communicate effectively with other scientists and engineers as well as associated professionals and the wider community using a wide range of communication technologies
  • work professionally as an individual and in a team
  • develop ideas and solutions appropriate to the social, political, economic and environmental contexts in which they are applied
  • plan and execute of an individual research project, applying relevant methodologies and knowledge
  • engage in the process of continuing learning.

Program of study

To qualify for the Bachelor of Design and Technology Innovation (Honours) a student must complete 36 units with a grade of P or NGP or better in each topic, according to the program of study below.

Core - Year 1 topics

DSGN7701 Ergonomics and User Centred Design (4.5 units) (See note 1)
DSGN7722 International Industrial Design (4.5 units)
DSGN7700A Honours Thesis (4.5/18 units)
DSGN7700B Honours Thesis (4.5/18 units)
DSGN7700C Honours Thesis (4.5/18 units)
DSGN7700D Honours Thesis (4.5/18 units)

Plus sufficient topics to the total of 36 units from:

INNO9001 Innovative and Creative Thinking: Recognising Opportunities GE (4.5 units)
INNO9003 Collaboration, Co-Creation and the Crowd: Leveraging your Ecosystem for Innovation GE (4.5 units)
INNO9004 Innovation for Social Impact: Doing Good While Doing Well GE (4.5 units)
INNO9006 Scaling Up. From Fast Start to Steady Growth (4.5 units)
INNO9012 Going Live! Entrepreneurial Strategies, Resources and Activities GE (4.5 units)
INNO9013 Finding Backers and Champions: Pitching for Finance, Resources and Support GE  (4.5 units)
INNO9014 Solving Grand Challenges: Applying frugal, inclusive and reverse innovation (4.5 units)
INNO9015 From Innovation to Impact: Creating a Roadmap from Opportunity to Action GE (4.5 units)

Note 1: Students who have completed this topic in the Bachelor of Design and Technology Innovation should select an alternative topic.